Praiseworthy: Dec. 10, 2012: Thanks for the help during first storms of the season

Valley Churches United Missions would like to thank the Ben Lomond Fire Department for providing sand and sandbags. Again, VCUM was here with our Disaster Center before, during and after, even though it was the weekend. Storms don't wait for Monday through Friday. PG&E funded $5,000 in disaster response which was used to make up starter disaster kits for low-income people. In addition, the Red Cross donated 800 52-piece first aid kits to be distributed. Through our Disaster Center and Holiday Projects, our ham radio operators where on hand to monitor our equipment. Thanks to VCUM volunteers who filled bags. Thanks to all who helped.

Annette Marcum, director/founder of Valley Churches United Missions

Thank you, Public Works

Here's to the Department of Public Works employees who recently filled potholes in the Ben Lomond area ahead of the recent rains. It has to be an endless job, and a hazardous one, to carry shovelfuls of asphalt onto busy roadways while dodging traffic. I particularly appreciate your filling the two holes in front of my house that created sudden clatter whenever a vehicle -- especially one towing an empty trailer -- hit them. Thank you for the new quiet road, even if it's temporary, and for the improved driving conditions.

Suzanne Schettler, Ben Lomond

Many thanks to B40 teachers

Many thanks to Branciforte Middle School P.E. teacher Joe Hedgecock for taking the initiative to morph the school's annual Turkey Trot run into a fundraiser, with great results. Due to the efforts of Mr. Hedgecock and strong student participation, the school raised more than $3,000, which will be used for media lab improvements. The school is working to raise a total of $30,000 for much-needed upgrades to its media lab. This is one of many examples I have seen of B40's teachers going above and beyond to help the school and its students.

Tara Rufo, Branciforte parent, Santa Cruz

Cabrillo Winter Concert a success

The Winter Concert of the Cabrillo College Concert Band and Symphonic Winds was a great success, in my opinion. We're used to these fine concerts, directed with such vitality by Jon Nordgren.

There was variety in such pieces as "A Medieval Christmas" when the Concert Band brought out the moving "Song of Praise" and the moving "Coventry Carol."

The Symphonic Winds played "Danny Boy" with a new approach and brought it to a moving conclusion. All the pieces were done with originality, especially the "American Riversongs," with its haunting Shenadoah theme, and "A Symphonic Prelude" based on "Black is the Color My True Love's Hair." The pieces began with a slow meditative sound and came to a powerful climax.

The audience seemed moved by the simplest, well-known piece.

Viviane Young, Aptos

Grateful for paper delivery

Grateful for the little things in life? Isn't finding the morning paper at your door step one of those rituals that brings a bit of order and peace to an otherwise unruly world? To those that make it possible, particularly the delivery person, thanks! Your service is not forgotten and I for one really appreciate it. So a note to all that like me enjoy this ritual, tip generously.